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Undergraduate Study

BA Film & Television Studies and Communications - 2025 entry

Please note: The below is for 2025 entries. Click here for 2024 entries.
UCAS code W604
Duration 3 years
Entry year 2025
Campus Streatham Campus
Discipline Film Studies
Contact

Web: Enquire online
Phone: 0300 555 6060 (UK callers) 
+44 (0)1392 723044 (EU/International callers)

Typical offer

View full entry requirements

A-Level: ABB
IB: 32/655
BTEC: DDM

Contextual offers

A-Level: BBC
IB: 28/554
BTEC: DDM-DMM

Overview

  • Investigate film and television history and analyse world cinemas to understand film’s role and power in today’s mediascape.
  • Gain deep knowledge of film and television as a cultural, social, industrial and global phenomenon.
  • You will hone practical and professional skills, equipping you to work across the creative industries or anywhere requiring people who understand how communications work.
  • Excellent facilities on campus include our Special Collections relating to world-renowned writers, The Bill Douglas Cinema Museum which is a unique film and popular culture resource and our Digital Humanities Lab. Exeter has also recently been awarded UNESCO City of Literature status.
  • Participate in events involving internationally acclaimed authors, actors and filmmakers.

View 2024 Entry

Request a prospectus

Open Days and visiting us

How to apply

Contact

Web: Enquire online

Phone: +44 (0)1392 72 72 72

Top 5 in the Russell Group for student satisfaction

 in five out of seven themes (National Student Survey 2023: Film)

World-class film research resources, including The Bill Douglas Cinema Museum

The largest university library collection in the UK

Multi-faceted degree drawing on strengths in English, Film, and Television Studies and Modern Languages and Cultures

Opportunities for Study Abroad and Employment Experience in the UK or abroad

The lecturers have been amazing. They’re all very approachable and willing to discuss readings and go through work in office hours.

The course has been fantastic. It has introduced me to a lot of critical theory. The film modules also rely on the materials of The Bill Douglas Cinema Museum, so you get a chance to interact with ephemera and touch some valuable film memorabilia! My essay writing skills have improved greatly (and hopefully continue to improve!). 

Read more from Richard

Richard

BA Film & Television Studies

Entry requirements (typical offer)

Qualification Typical offer Required subjects
A-Level ABB n/a
IB 32/655 n/a
BTEC DDM n/a
GCSE C or 4 English Language
Access to HE 24 L3 Credits at Distinction Grade and 21 L3 credits at Merit Grade. N/A
T-Level Distinction n/a
Contextual Offer

A-Level: BBC
IB: 28/554
BTEC: DDM-DMM

Specific subject requirements must still be achieved where stated above. Find out more about contextual offers.

Other accepted qualifications

View other accepted qualifications

English language requirements

International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course. The required test scores for this course fall under Profile B2. Please visit our English language requirements page to view the required test scores and equivalencies from your country.

NB General Studies is not included in any offer.

Grades advertised on each programme webpage are the typical level at which our offers are made and provide information on any specific subjects an applicant will need to have studied in order to be considered for a place on the programme. However, if we receive a large number of applications for the programme we may not be able to make an offer to all those who are predicted to achieve/have achieved grades which are in line with our typical offer. For more information on how applications are assessed and when decisions are released, please see: After you apply

Course content

Communications: We will give you the opportunity to experience different ways of learning, with specialist modules that cover everything from the history of communications and professional writing, to language and social interaction and global communications.

The first year of study guides you through the specialised language used in the analysis of film and approaches to studying film as a visual and aural art form. It familiarises you with the most important movements and moments in cinema history, introduces you to key concepts and theories, and engages with the cross-cultural and transnational exchanges between world cinemas.

60 credits of compulsory Film and Television Studies modules, 60 credits of compulsory Communications modules.

Compulsory modules

CodeModule Credits
EAF1501 Major Debates in Film Theory 30
EAF1506 Interrogating Screens 30
CMM1001 Perspectives on Communications 30
CMM1002 Communications Challenges 30

In the second year, you will study the history of American cinema and contemporary theories of film philosophy.

60 credits of optional Film & Television Studies modules, 60 credits of Communications modules.

 

Compulsory modules

a Communications modules:

Choose either the 15 or 30 credit version of Communications in the Workplace.

 

CodeModule Credits
CMM2008 Communications Research Methods 30
CMM2001 Communications in the Workplace [See note a above]15
CMM2002 Communications in the Workplace [See note a above]30

Optional modules

If you select the 15 credit version of Communications in the Workplace, choose a further 30 credits of optional Communications modules from this list.

If you select the 30 credit version of Communications in the Workplace, choose a further 15 credits of optional Communications modules from this list.

c Film and Television Studies modules

Choose 60 credits of optional modules from this list

CodeModule Credits
COMMS S2 BA CH opt 2022-3 [See note b above]
CMM2003 Professional Writing 15
CMM2004 History of Communications 15
CMM2008 Communications Research Methods 30
CMM2006 Communications and Climate Crisis 15
CMM2007 Communications in the 21st Century 15
ANT2090 Sound and Society 15
SOC2030 Sociology of Art and Culture 15
SOC2034 Gender and Society 1 15
SOC2096 Cyborg Studies 15
PHL2125 Ethics of Emerging Technologies 15
EAF2510 Adaptation: Text, Image, Culture 30
EAS2090 Humanities after the Human: Further Adventures in Critical Theory 30
HUM2004 Making a Career in Publishing 15
POL2100 Political Conflicts in Europe 15
SOC2115 Deception 15
SML2246 Intercultural Communication 15
SML2244 Multilingualism in Society 15
THE2043 Religious Literacy, Communication and Media 30
CMM2001 Communications in the Workplace 15
CMM2002 Communications in the Workplace 30
FTVS Stage 2 CH option modules 2023-4 [See note c above]
EAF2500 European Cinemas: Art, Industry, Entertainment 15
EAF2502 Shots in the Dark 30
EAF2508 Cinescapes: Time, Space and Identity 30
EAF2510 Adaptation: Text, Image, Culture 30
EAF2511 Television: Times, Trends and Technologies 30
EAF2512 European Cinemas: Art, Industry, Entertainment 30

Typically, any placement year will take place in Year 3. If you are not taking a placement year please see the Final Year modules for year 3.

In your final year you can pursue your own interests and develop expertise in selected areas. Choose from a wide array of specialist modules, covering topics ranging from American independent cinema, surrealist cinema, to war and visual media. You will also either write a dissertation or complete a creative dissertation video essay or short film on a topic of your choice.

30 credits of compulsory dissertation, 90 credits of optional modules (including 30-60 credits of Film and Television Studies modules, and 30-60 credits of Communications modules). Students wishing to take

 

Compulsory modules

Subject to choosing 120 credits for the stage overall, you must:

Select a Dissertation in either Communications or Film and Television Studies: CMM3002 or CMM3003 or EAF3514 or EAF3516 (you cannot choose more than one module from this group).

 

CodeModule Credits
CMM3002 Communications: Dissertation [See note d above]30
CMM3003 Communications: Practical Research Project [See note d above]30
EAF3514 Film Studies Dissertation [See note d above]30
EAF3516 Creative Film Dissertation [See note d above]30

Optional modules

e If you select CMM3002 or CMM3003 you must select a further 30 optional credits from Communications modules and 60 credits from the optional Film & Television modules.

f If you select EAF3514 or EAF3516 you must select a further 60 optional credits from Communications modules and 30 credits from the optional Film & Television modules.

CodeModule Credits
COMMS SF BA CH opt 2022-3
CMM3001 Arts Journalism and Creative Non-Fiction 30
DRA3050 Creative Industries Management 30
EAF3515 Something to See: War and Visual Media 30
HIH3617 News, Media and Communication 30
POL3000 Deadly Words: The Language of Political Violence 15
POL3051 The Media in Europe 30
SML3009 Intercultural Communication in a Global World 15
FTVS Final Stage CH option modules 2023-4
EAF3501 American Independent Film 30
EAF3508 Beyond Sex and the City: Becoming a Woman in Western Cinema 30
EAF3513 British Screens 30
EAF3514 Film Studies Dissertation 30
EAF3515 Something to See: War and Visual Media 30
EAF3516 Creative Film Dissertation 30
EAF3518 Queering British Film and Television 30
EAF3520 Beyond Sex and the City: Becoming a Woman in Contemporary Western Cinema 15
EAF3521 Film Audiences 30

Course variants

UCAS code: W605

Our four-year ‘with Study Abroad’ degree, offers you the possibility of spending your third year abroad, studying with one of our many partner universities.

Why Study Abroad?

Living and studying in a different country is an exciting experience that broadens your academic and cultural horizons, as well as giving you the opportunity to widen your circle of friends. Students who have studied abroad demonstrate initiative, independence, motivation and, depending on where they stay, may also have gained a working knowledge of another language – all key qualities that employers are looking for in today’s competitive employment environment.

Where can I Study Abroad?

We have partnership arrangements with many prestigious institutions across the globe. Exactly where you can apply to study will depend on the subjects you are studying at Exeter. For a full list please visit the Study Abroad website.

Does it count towards my degree?

Credit for academic work during your year abroad is arranged by agreement between the University of Exeter and the host institution. These marks are then translated back into your degree at Exeter. If you are Studying Abroad for a semester or full year, your time abroad will count toward your final degree. Please refer to your College Study Abroad co-ordinator for further details.

How does it affect my tuition fee and funding?

For the year that you spend studying abroad you will pay a significantly reduced tuition fee to Exeter, but nothing to your host university – for more information visit our fees pages. If you were previously eligible, you will continue to receive a maintenance loan whilst on your Study Abroad year.

UCAS code: W606

Our four-year ‘with Employment Experience’ degree, offers you the possibility of spending your third year carrying out a graduate-level work placement or placements within the UK as part of your degree.

Why choose to include Employment Experience?

Undertaking graduate-level work during your degree unlocks a world of experience that allows you to develop essential employability and interpersonal skills that relate to your degree and future career. A work placement will dramatically boost your confidence, enhance your CV and develop graduate level skills and competencies that employers are looking for.

Where will I do my work placement?

The sector you choose to work within is very much your choice as you will be responsible for finding and organising your placement. We will provide plenty of guidance and support during your first and second years which will prepare you to research and apply for placements. Ultimately, the university will give final approval to your placement to make sure you have a valuable experience.

How does it affect my tuition fee and funding?

For your ‘Year In Industry’ you will pay a significantly reduced tuition fee to Exeter – for more information visit our fees pages. If you were previously eligible, you will continue to receive a maintenance loan whilst on your year of work placement/s.

Find out more

Visit our website to learn more about employment experience opportunities. 

UCAS code: W607

Our four-year ‘with Employment Experience Abroad’ degree, offers you the possibility of spending your third year abroad, carrying out a graduate-level work placement or placements as part of your degree.

Why choose to include Employment Experience Abroad?

Spending up to a year living and working in a different country is an exciting experience that broadens your academic and cultural horizons, as well as giving you the opportunity to widen your circle of friends. By carrying out a graduate-level work placement or placements abroad you can demonstrate to employers your adaptability, cultural awareness, independence and resourcefulness and, depending on where you stay, may also have gained a working knowledge of another language.

Where will I do my work placement?

The sector and country you choose to work within is very much your choice as you will be responsible for finding and organising your placement. We will provide plenty of guidance and support during your first and second years which will prepare you to research and apply for placements. Ultimately, the university will give final approval to your placement to make sure you have a valuable experience.

How does it affect my tuition fee and funding?

For your ‘Year In Industry’ you will pay a significantly reduced tuition fee to Exeter – for more information visit our fees pages. If you were previously eligible, you will continue to receive a maintenance loan whilst on your year of work placement/s.

Is the placement paid?

You will be paid in accordance with the rules of the country you work in and there may be visa restrictions or requirements which you need to consider when applying.

Find out more

Visit our website to learn more about employment experience opportunities. 

Fees

Tuition fees for 2024 entry

UK students: £9,250 per year
International students: £23,700 per year

Scholarships

The University of Exeter has many different scholarships available to support your education, including £5 million in scholarships for international students, such as our Global Excellence Scholarships*. Financial support is also available for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, lower income households and other under-represented groups to help them access, succeed and progress through higher education.

* Terms and conditions apply. See online for details.

Find out more about tuition fees and scholarships

Learning and teaching

How will I learn?

The nature of learning at university involves considerable self-guided study and research. You will be taught through a combination of lectures and discussion-based seminars. We also support the development of team-based learning by organising students into study groups, and we make full use of both traditional learning resources and our virtual learning environment. Lecturers and tutors are all available to provide further support in one-to-one consultations.

Most of your work will be done in group and self-directed study: reading or viewing module material, writing essays or preparing for your seminars. Active participation in seminars develops important transferable skills such as good verbal and visual communication and effective interaction with other people. You will also develop a range of professional abilities, such as time management and team working, plus valuable critical, analytical and communication skills.

We are actively engaged in introducing new methods of learning and teaching, including the increasing use of interactive computer-based approaches to learning. Through our virtual learning environment, you can access detailed information about modules, and interact through activities such as discussion forums. You will also have access to online subscription databases and websites, such as Early English Books Online (EEBO), Eighteenth Century Collections Online (ECCO), MLA FirstSearch and JSTOR.

How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed in a variety of ways but primarily through exams and coursework. Coursework includes essays, a dissertation and presentation work. The ratio of formal exam to coursework is on average 40:60. Your first year doesn’t count towards your final degree classification, but you do have to pass it in order to progress.

Other/Extra-curricular opportunities

We provide an exciting range of special lectures and seminars by visiting academics and renowned writers, actors and film directors. In addition to your academic work, the student-run English Society organises book and poetry readings, film screenings and social events, providing an opportunity to meet students who share a love of literature, culture and the arts. Students from the English department are always active on the University student newspapers, radio and TV station and in the University’s drama groups.

Optional modules outside of this course

Each year, if you have optional modules available, you can take up to 30 credits in a subject outside of your course. This can increase your employability and widen your intellectual horizons.

Proficiency in a second subject

If you complete 60 credits of modules in one of the subjects below, you may have the words 'with proficiency in [e.g. Social Data Science]' added to your degree title when you graduate.

  • A Foreign Language
  • Law
  • Social Data Science
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Leadership

Find out more about proficiency options

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Facilities

Students in the Bill Douglas Cinema Museum

We are exceptionally lucky to have some fantastic facilities and resources on the Streatham Campus.

Special Collections

We have Special Collections relating to writers such as Agatha Christie, Daphne du Maurier, and William Golding, and we integrate these into our teaching so students can share the excitement we have when discovering new insights from manuscripts, letters, and business papers.

The Bill Douglas Cinema Museum

Our unique film and popular culture resource, contains items going back hundreds of years. We regularly take students into its archives and think about the study of literature in relation to visual texts.

Digital Humanities Lab

Digital Humanities is increasingly important in all areas of humanities research, including history, archaeology, literatures and languages. This research space enables the examination, preservation and analysis of historical, literary and visual material. Facilities in the lab include:

  • a flagship seminar room equipped with a 4.2-metre video wall, encouraging interactive engagement in a shared display space
  • two state-of-the-art photography labs, including provision for the 2D digitisation of heritage material and primary sources
  • an audio-visual lab with a recording studio and sound editing suite
  • a MakerSpace equipped with 3D scanning and printing equipment

Your future

Employer-valued skills this course develops

Film graduates from the University of Exeter have an excellent reputation with graduate recruiters and compete very successfully in the employment market.

A degree in Film Studies from the University of Exeter will enable you to acquire skills which are attractive to employers and relevant for a wide range of careers. You will develop an informed, critical and creative approach. Alongside strong oral and written communication skills, you will be able to manage your time and workload effectively, work well as part of a team or independently, be flexible when faced with new situations and have strong analytical skills.

Employer visits

We have a dedicated, award-winning Careers Service, ensuring you have access to careers advisors, mentors and the tools you need to succeed in finding employment in your chosen field on graduation. We offer the Exeter Award and the Exeter Leaders Award which include employability-related workshops, skills events, volunteering and employment which will contribute to your career decision-making skills and success in the employment market. Our graduates compete very successfully in the employment market, with many employers targeting the University when recruiting new graduates. For further information please visit our Careers Service.

Career paths

You will be equipped with skills that are attractive to employers and relevant for a wide range of careers, including graduate-level roles in Events Management, TV production, the film industry, publishing, education, sales, communications and marketing.

Example careers

  • Accounts Executive
  • Data and Research
  • Analyst
  • Digital Media Assistant
  • Editor/Film-maker
  • Innovations Coordinator
  • Marketing Executive
  • Market Researcher
  • Post-production Assistant
  • Production Runner
  • PR Consultant
  • Further study

Further study

Recent graduates have progressed to postgraduate courses in:

  • MA English
  • MA Film and Cinema
  • MA Creative Writing
  • MA International Film Business
  • MA History
  • MA Arts and Cinema Studies
  • MA Creative Writing
  • MA Film Studies
  • MA Theology
  • MRes in Sexuality and Gender Studies

* This information has been taken from the Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education (DLHE) Surveys 14/15, 15/16, and 16/17. Please note that, due to data protection, the job titles and organisations are listed independently and do not necessarily correspond.

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